How to Update Windows and Protect Your Computer

When hackers look for a target, they usually go for the biggest they can find. Internet Explorer controls a large part of the market, so it is the most vulnerable browser. If you Update your computer with the patches from Microsoft regularly, you can avoid the problems hackers might cause by attacking glitches and vulnerabilities in the IE browser.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows Update

1. There are many ways, depending on which Windows version you have, to update Windows. If you don't know which version you have, the easiest way to Update Windows is to: Go to Tools (in your IE browser) and click "Windows Update."

2. In Vista, the System and Maintenance Screen will open automatically and check for Updates. It will then inform you of how many updates are available. Click to install updates. It will prompt you to reboot your computer.

3. In older versions of Windows, after clicking Windows Update from Tools, you will be led to the Microsoft website. The website will check for the newest updates automatically. A screen will pop-up and ask you if you want to install updates. Click "Yes". The Updates will install and prompt you to reboot your computer.

4. If you have an even older version, after being redirected to the Microsoft website, the screen will say, "Welcome to Windows Update", click on the green tab, "scan for updates." A pop-up screen will appear. Follow the directions above.

5. If you never have installed a single update to your computer, the screen at Microsoft may ask you to pick updates to install, (especially if you haven't installed the Service Packs to older versions of Windows).
   
   In this case, you will have to install the older updates first. Install the first Updates and then reboot. Go again to Windows updates to install the rest of the patches.

Tips & Warnings

• Shut all programs before installing updates. Windows update will prompt to restart computer.
• Reboot your computer immediately after being prompted to do so.
• If your browser is crashing, use another browser until you download the Updates.
• Internet Explorer (IE) is very vulnerable but the Updates have patches to correct any defects in the IE browser that may affect the security of your computer.
• Updates are available on the Microsoft website. Depending on your country and Windows version, the update site differs. If you type in your browser: www.microsoft.com, the Microsoft site will recognise your browser and version number in your country's language. On the Main page, click the tab: Security and Updates.

Resources

• Microsoft

[digidi]

on 1/11/2009 Simple and effective!

[2besure]

on 1/4/2009 Thanks for sharing this! 5*****

[Elander]

on 1/3/2009 It's a simple thing that everyone who uses a computer needs to know. Thanks.

[2enjoylife]

on 12/29/2008 I think my computer has been running better since I've been installing the updates instead of ignoring the little boxes that pop up.****

[IcyCucky]

on 12/29/2008 Great info, and tips! 5*